CDL Schools USA is an independent directory that lists and verifies FMCSA-registered commercial driver's license (CDL) training providers across the United States. This page contains 11 verified training programs serving the South Portland, Maine area.

FMCSA VERIFIED 2025

CDL Schools in South Portland, ME

Are you looking for commercial driver training in South Portland?We have identified 11 FMCSA-verified programs serving the South Portland area (Pop: 26,498).

Quick Stats

11 Training Programs
ELDT Compliant
3-8 Week Programs
Pop: 26,498

Quick Facts: CDL Training in South Portland, ME

CDL License Types
Class A, Class B, Class C
Average Training Cost
$3,000 – $8,000
Program Length
3-8 weeks
Weekend / Evening Options
Available at select schools
FMCSA Registration Required
Yes
Verified Schools
11

Local CDL training answer

How should students compare CDL schools in South Portland, ME?

Students comparing CDL schools in South Portland, ME should first confirm that the provider is listed in the FMCSA Training Provider Registry for the CDL class or endorsement they need. Then compare tuition, behind-the-wheel hours, public enrollment status, manual or automatic transmission training, weekend or evening schedules, and whether the program supports WIOA, veteran benefits, job placement, or employer-sponsored training. This page lists 11 training programsserving the South Portland area and is intended to help students request information without exposing private school contact data publicly.

11 CDL Schools Near South Portland

Top Picks in South Portland

Editor's Choice
#1 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Northeast Technical Institute [S]

Scarborough, ME

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#2 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Northeast Technical Institute [S - Yard]

Scarborough, ME

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#3 Editor's ChoiceVerified

Falmouth School Dept

Falmouth, ME

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Northeast Technical Institute [S]

Scarborough, ME
4.3 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

Northeast Technical Institute [S - Yard]

Scarborough, ME
6.8 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

Falmouth School Dept

Falmouth, ME
7 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

Gorham School Transportation

Gorham, ME
10.2 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

Gorham School Transportation-Bus Depot

Gorham, ME
11.9 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

GoDriving

Saco, ME
14.3 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

The Heart of Driving Driver Education LLC

Southport, ME
30.9 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

Wiscasset school dept.

Wiscasset, ME
38.8 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

Regional School Unit 4

Wales, ME
38.9 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

ELDT United Academy LLC

Farmington, NH
45.1 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

Barrington Middle School

Barrington, NH
47.9 miles away
FMCSA ELDT Verified

CDL Training in South Portland, Maine

South Portland, Maine offers 11 FMCSA-verified CDL training programs for aspiring commercial drivers in 2026. Whether you need a Class A CDL for tractor-trailers or a Class B CDL for straight trucks, compare the programs below by tuition, training length, public enrollment status, and available endorsements. Full-time CDL training often takes 4-8 weeks, while part-time, evening, and weekend options may take longer. Before enrolling, confirm the provider is listed in the FMCSA Training Provider Registry and ask whether the school offers job placement, manual transmission training, WIOA or veteran funding support, and behind-the-wheel practice that matches your target CDL class.

Why Get CDL Training Near South Portland?

  • Local Training: Train close to home with familiar roads and traffic patterns
  • Job Placement: Many local trucking companies hire graduates directly
  • Financial Aid: Schools in Maine often qualify for WIOA grants and veteran benefits
  • ELDT Compliance: All listed schools meet federal ELDT requirements effective February 2022

CDL Training Costs in Maine

CDL training in Maine typically ranges from $3,000 to $8,000 for private schools, with community colleges offering programs from $2,000 to $5,000. Many trucking companies also offer paid CDL training programs with a 1-2 year employment commitment.

Trucking Jobs Near South Portland

Get hired after you complete your CDL training

$45,000 - $75,000
Average annual salary for CDL drivers in Maine
2,500+
Open trucking positions in Maine

Top employers hiring near South Portland: Amazon, Walmart, UPS, FedEx, Werner Enterprises, Schneider National, Swift Transportation, and regional carriers.

Job types available: Local delivery, regional routes, OTR (Over-the-Road), dedicated routes, tanker, flatbed, and refrigerated transport.

Compare CDL Schools in South Portland

Side-by-side comparison of top training programs

⚙️ Transmission:
Showing 11 schools
School Name
City
Program TypesKey FeaturesContact
Class AClass BHazmat
Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesVA Approved
Class A
Evening ClassesVA Approved
Falmouth School Dept
FMCSA Verified
Class A
Weekend ClassesEvening ClassesVA Approved
GoDriving
FMCSA Verified
Class AClass BHazmat
Manual Trans.VA Approved
Class AClass B
Manual Trans.
Class AClass BHazmat
Manual Trans.Weekend ClassesEvening ClassesVA Approved
Class AClass BTanker
Manual Trans.
Class AClass BTanker
Manual Trans.VA Approved
Class AHazmatTanker
Manual Trans.Evening ClassesVA Approved
Class AClass B
Manual Trans.Evening Classes
Class A
Manual Trans.Evening Classes

Tuition Costs in South Portland

Avg. Private School
$6,200
Avg. Public School
$4,200
Price Range
$3,600 - $7,500

Limited options in rural areas.

Need Help Choosing?

Take our free quiz to get matched with schools that fit your needs, budget, and schedule.

Get Matched FREE

DOT Physicals Near South Portland

Required for your CDL medical card

Patient First - North South Portland

4725 Park Ave, South Portland
4.1
$65-$152
Walk-ins OK

Concentra Urgent Care

1 Maine Mall Rd, South Portland
4.1
$75-$125
Walk-ins OK

MedNow Urgent Care

9 Fundy Rd, Falmouth
4.1
$70-$135
Walk-ins OK

💡 Pro Tip: Get your DOT physical before starting CDL training. The exam typically costs $55-$150 and is valid for up to 2 years.

CDL Testing & BMV in South Portland

Schedule your CDL knowledge and skills tests through your local BMV office. Find testing locations, wait times, and required documents.

Find BMV Office

Frequently Asked Questions About CDL Training in South Portland

How long does CDL training take in South Portland?
CDL training programs in South Portland, ME typically take 3-8 weeks for full-time students. Part-time programs may take 3-6 months. Company-sponsored programs often run 4-6 weeks with guaranteed job placement upon completion.
How much does CDL school cost in Maine?
CDL training costs in Maine range from $3,000-$10,000 for private schools, $1,500-$5,000 at community colleges, and FREE through company-sponsored programs (with employment commitment). Many schools accept WIOA grants, GI Bill benefits, and offer payment plans.
Can I get a CDL in South Portland without quitting my job?
Yes, several CDL schools in the South Portland area offer weekend and evening classes for working adults. These flexible schedules allow you to earn your CDL while keeping your current job. Weekend programs typically take 8-16 weeks to complete.
How do I know if a CDL school in South Portland is legitimate?
All legitimate CDL schools must be registered in the FMCSA Training Provider Registry (TPR) at tpr.fmcsa.dot.gov. You can verify any school there. Be wary of schools that promise a CDL in less than 2 weeks or cannot provide their TPR registration number. The FMCSA removed over 550 non-compliant providers in 2025-2026 alone.
Do I need ELDT training to get a CDL?
Yes, as of February 2022, all first-time CDL applicants must complete Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) from an FMCSA-registered training provider before taking the CDL skills test. All schools listed on CDL Schools USA are ELDT-compliant. The ELDT requirement includes both theory instruction (30+ hours) and behind-the-wheel training.
Can I get financial aid for CDL school in Maine?
Yes, several funding options exist for CDL training in Maine: WIOA (Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act) grants, Pell Grants at eligible community colleges, VA benefits for veterans, and company-sponsored training programs. Contact individual schools to learn about their specific financial aid options.
What is the job outlook for CDL drivers near South Portland?
The CDL driver job outlook near South Portland, ME is strong. The American Trucking Associations reports a shortage of 80,000+ drivers nationally, with Maine experiencing above-average demand. Starting salaries for new CDL graduates typically range from $45,000-$55,000, with experienced drivers earning $65,000-$80,000. Many carriers offer signing bonuses of $5,000-$15,000 for qualified CDL holders.
Should I get a Class A or Class B CDL in South Portland?
The choice depends on your career goals. A Class A CDL allows you to drive any commercial vehicle including tractor-trailers (18-wheelers)—this opens the most job opportunities and highest pay. A Class B CDL limits you to straight trucks, buses, and dump trucks but is sufficient for local delivery, waste management, and transit jobs. Most South Portland CDL schools offer both options. If unsure, get the Class A—it qualifies you for Class B jobs too.